vintage shark vertebrae’s cane

Description

vintage shark vertebrae’s cane.
Scrimshaw was one form of sailors’ art, and cane making was another. This example is made from a series of carefully graduated shark vertebrae threaded over a heavy metal rod, with the biggest vertebrae at the top. the handle is made of carved wood. A thin wood ring separates the handle from the highest vertebra. This would have been an extraordinary conversation piece in the hands of an old or handicapped 19th century sailing ship crewman.
Please refer to pictures for better understanding of condition.